Sale Sharks have agreed a deal to sign powerful Flying Fijian back-rower Elia Canakaivata on a two-year contract starting from the 2026–2027 season.
The versatile 29-year-old, who can play on either flanker or at number 8, currently stars in Super Rugby for the Fijian Drua, where he has played since 2023.
Known for his powerful carries and dominance at the breakdown, Elia was originally part of Fiji’s extended 7s programme and represented Suva in the Skipper Cup, Fiji’s top provincial competition.
His breakthrough on the international stage came in Dubai in 2021 with the Fiji Sevens team, where he went on to win multiple World Sevens Series titles and a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.
He later transitioned to the 15-a-side game and made such an impact that he earned Fiji’s Players’ Player of the Year award in 2025.
In total, he has played 20 matches for Fiji and started in the number seven jersey in their defeat to England in the recent Autumn Series.
Outside of rugby, Elia is also a naval officer.
Elia says he is excited about joining a club like Sale Sharks in the Premiership, describing it as a great competition and a club with a lot of history.
He says it is a great opportunity for him to experience something different.
He says he knows some of the players from playing against them for Fiji and cannot wait to play alongside Tom Curry, whom he describes as one of the best players in the world in his position.
Canakaivata says he loves the physical side of the game and believes he will suit the style of Sale Sharks. He also says he knows Bill Mata from the national team and is looking forward to playing against him.
Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson says Elia does a lot of work that may go under the radar.
Sanderson says he may not have many Hollywood moments, but he is a serious player on both sides of the ball.
He says Elia loves tackling and using his physicality in defence, but is also a strong ball carrier. Because he came through the Sevens circuit, his work rate is fantastic, and he is expected to make a big impact at the club.
Sanderson adds that Elia’s wife and Ponipate’s wife are good friends, and the two families will support each other on and off the field.
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